The Science Behind the Mesmerizing Colors of Aurora Opal

Aurora opal gemstones are the most beautiful gemstones available out there. It is naturally formed and found in Australia. The gemstones are known for their unique play of color it exhibits when exposed to light.

It is also known as a gemstone which is inspired by the northern lights. It reflects the northern lights similarly we see the northern lights in the polar regions.

The aurora opal gemstone displays a variety of colors and captures everyone’s attention. Here, we will discuss the science behind the mesmerizing colors of aurora opal gemstones.

In this blog, we will discuss how these gemstones are formed naturally in Australia. And they are dearest to jewelers as well as gemstone lovers and what is the secret behind the colors the gemstone displays?

How are Aurora Opal Gemstones Formed?

Aurora opal crystal formation is a long process that takes place below the earth’s surface naturally. To understand the colors the gemstone displays one has to understand how these are formed.

Aurora opal gemstones are formed of a major compound that is silica, which consists of silicon and oxygen. It is its unique formation process that provides its eye-catching colors.

It is formed when silica-rich water seeps into the earth and sets in the cavities and gaps formed in the rocks. With time the water evaporates leaving behind the raw crystal which is known as aurora opal gemstone.

It is then given shape after extraction and polished to get the desired look out of the raw crystal. It is because of the silica spheres in the crystal which form in the process carried on for years that it displays the play of color.

To know more about the aurora opal gemstones have a look at: The Phenomenal Characteristics of Aurora Opals.

How Does the Play of Colors Appear in Aurora Opal Gemstones?

A process known as opalescence reflects light and displays a variety of colors just like the northern lights in the sky. The play of colors appears when light interacts with the small silica spheres in the inner layers of the gemstone.

The arrangement of silica gives a unique appearance to the aurora opal crystals. The particular type of gemstone is unique because it shows a variety of colors, unlike others. Other similar gemstones are Peridot stone and Moldavite Stone.

The main colors which can be seen in the aurora opal gemstones are:

• Vibrant shades of green
• Shades of blue
• Fiery red shades
• Variety of purple when disposed to light

Main Factors Affecting the Colors of the Gemstone

Several factors affect the display of color in aurora opals gemstones. They are:

Size of the Silica Spheres in the Gemstone

The size of the silica sphere in the gemstone affects the reflection of colors when disposed to lights. Since it is a natural process the color of the aurora crystal varies.

For example, smaller spheres are known to reflect cooler tones of color like blue and green, whereas larger spheres reflect warmer colors like red and orange.

Arrangement of Silica Spheres

The arrangement of the silica spheres in the inner layers of the gemstone plays an important role in reflecting the colors in each gemstone. Each aurora opal is unique in itself as they are formed through a natural process.

Presence of Other Elements

Though majorly aurora opal crystals are formed of silica they can contain other elements which are found below the earth. It can sometimes contain iron, magnesium, or some other element in small quantities.

The presence of other elements plays an important role in the variety of colors that the gemstone displays. For example, the presence of iron in the crystal can result in the production of warmer tones, and some other elements can result in the reflection of cooler tones.

Conclusion

Aurora opal gemstones are a true example of the natural beauty that we find in nature. It reflects unique colors when exposed to light and each angle displays a new color.

The colors we see are because of the formation process it undergoes below the surface of the earth. Along with its beauty, the aurora opal is also known among gemstone lovers for its healing properties.

Thus, it is important to know about the science behind the mesmerizing colors of aurora opals gemstones so that you can appreciate their beauty.